The police and fire service have both issued warnings against getting into open water as 12 people have died in the last week.

Darwen fire crews have been surface and sub surface training this week on open water.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: “This week, Darwen fire have been taking on surface and subsurface water rescue training.

“Our waterways stay very cold even on hot days; please be extra careful around open water.

“There have been several tragedies only recently, with lives sadly lost in British waters.”

As England has had a week of hotter days, more people have been getting into open water while out to cool down without being aware of the dangers.

On social media, a spokesperson for the police said: “It can be very tempting in this hot weather to jump into open water to cool yourself down, but there are multiple risks that come with it, with over 700 people dying from accidental drowning in the UK and Ireland, 12 of those being in the last week.

“Keep your family and friends safe around water by following the Water Safety Code.

“Stop and think. Look for the dangers and always read the signs.

“Stay together. Never swim alone, always go with friends or family.

“Avoid alcohol and drugs. Never swim under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

“Think about the temperature. The water will be much colder than you think and can send your body into shock, making it difficult to breathe and causing cramping and even death.”